As measles cases mount in the US, what’s the situation worldwide

A sign outside the Seminole Hospital District in Texas now advertises measles testing, highlighting growing concerns as cases continue to climb across the country.

This week, the U.S. recorded its first measles-related death since 2015—a child in rural West Texas who was unvaccinated. Texas health officials have reported 124 cases so far, while New Mexico has confirmed nine.

Measles is often brought into the U.S. by travelers, but experts say declining vaccination rates since the COVID-19 pandemic are fueling outbreaks. In the U.S., most states now fall below the 95% vaccination rate needed to prevent community-wide outbreaks.

The problem extends beyond the U.S. In 2024, the U.K. reported 2,911 confirmed measles cases—the highest annual total since 2012.

Measles cases in the U.S. nearly doubled last year compared to 2023, with outbreaks confirmed in at least 18 states, including New York City, Philadelphia, and Chicago.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that “measles anywhere is a threat everywhere,” emphasizing the importance of vaccination to curb the spread of this highly contagious virus.